Villas and Gardens of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore Tour

Start your tour on the majestic Lake Maggiore. You will arrive in the town of Stresa, get to know your surroundings by exploring Stresa and admire the beautiful views towards the Borromean Islands or simply relax by the pool. 

Alternatively, you may like to take the boat across the lake and explore the botanical gardens of Villa Taranto or visit the famous Villa Pallavicino in Stresa, which is home to a beautiful park, wildlife reserve, and botanical gardens. Dinner to be enjoyed at leisure.

After breakfast meet your guide who will be with you all week as you explore the charming villas and gardens of Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. Today will certainly be a highlight as you visit the stunning Borromean Islands of Isola Bella and Isola Madre by private boat. The islands are renowned for their immaculate gardens and beautiful architecture. Isola Bella offers stunning Baroque architecture and is famous across the world for its Italian gardens. Isola Madre was first cultivated at the beginning of the 16th century, when the Borromeo family, impressed by the exceptionally mild climate on the island, began to introduce citrus trees and vines. During the nineteenth century, the orchard gradually evolved into landscaped botanical gardens. After, you will return to Stresa by private boat where you can enjoy your last evening on Lake Maggiore.

Arrive on beautiful Lake Como and check into Hotel Royal Victoria in Varenna. Spend the afternoon at leisure to explore this charming town and perhaps consider a visit to the nearby Villa Cipressi and its beautiful gardens. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the Royal Victoria.

With your guide you will board a public boat to Villa Carlotta and visit its world-famous gardens and villa. Once you have admired its beauty you will board a private boat for your onward journey along the lake where you will arrive at the stunning Villa Balbianello, a breathtaking villa located on a peninsula of Lake Como. Explore its immaculate gardens, terraces and interiors which have featured in several movies, including James Bond’s “Casino Royale” whilst on your guided tour.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel to board the public boat to Bellagio. The true beauty of the lake can be appreciated as you take the short journey to this stunning promontory, Bellagio is often described as the “Pearl of Lake Como” with its cobbled streets and lake front restaurants. Visit the 18th-century Villa Melzi and its stunning gardens, followed by free time to explore the charming town of Bellagio, the perfect time for a spot of lunch. After, board the public boat back to Varenna and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Time to depart back to the UK